A veteran Rochdale politician has revealed that he has been diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Labour MP Sir Tony Lloyd, aged 73, has announced that he has been receiving treatment for an "aggressive and untreatable" form of blood cancer.

In a post on social media, the politician who has represented Greater Manchester for more than 40 years, said: "I have been receiving treatment for some time for a form of blood cancer which has been controlled by chemotherapy.

"Unfortunately this has now transformed into an aggressive and untreatable form of leukaemia and I will be leaving hospital today to spend the time I have left with my family.

"I ask for privacy for both myself and my family at this time. My office will remain open to continue to support my constituents."

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer responded to the news through his own statement, also published on social media, mentioning how Sir Tony was "admired and respected".

It read: "I am deeply saddened by the update today from Sir Tony Lloyd on his illness. I know that sadness will be shared across the Labour Party and beyond.

"Tony has spent 40 years of his life in public service in many different roles. That lifelong sense of duty has seen him work tirelessly for local communities as an MP, ensure people's safety as Police and Crime Commissioner in Manchester, and build stronger relationships across the country and abroad the world as a government minister and in the shadow cabinet.

"Tony's election as chair of the Parliamentary Labour Party in 2006 showed the esteem in which he is held by colleagues. He is renowned for his kindness, his sense of fairness, his commitment to his principles and his thoughtfulness."

It continued: "Tony is admired and respected throughout the Labour Party, and we are indebted to him for his lifetime of service. Our thoughts are with him and his family at this time."